People often proclaim weed as the safest substance to consume. While virtually impossible to overdose, many smokers generally ignore the paranoia that some experience when smoking. If you're reading this and you feel paranoid or anxious when smoking cannabis, don't worry you're not alone.

Why is this a problem?

Over time, the concentration of THC in Cannabis has risen dramatically. In 1990, the average THC percentage was around 5.5%. Now in legal states, consumers find THC concentrations over 25%, sometimes even over 30%. Better genetics, greater understanding of the growing process have all help boost the THC percentage but another theory helps explain why the motivation.

One explanation relates to Cannabis prohibition as the driving force because it decreases the weight and increases the price making cannabis more profitable for black market players.

How do I avoid being paranoid when smoking?

1. Smoke lower concentration THC strains

Finding lower THC strains can be difficult. Especially in grey markets where tested cannabis remains elusive, try to get lab tested strains when possible. If you can't get lab requests, just remember to smoke it slowly to understand how potent the strain is before you increase your consumption.

2. Try CBD instead of THC

Many people try cannabis hoping to alleviate their symptoms of anxiety only to become more anxious than ever. The problems lies with a fundamental misunderstanding of the differences between various cannabinoids in the plant. THC creates an elated feeling, “high” and also has numerous other health benefits but CBD reduces anxiety and stress without the psychotic side effects.

CBD furthermore has been shown to actually reduce the stress induced by smoking very high THC percent age strains by acting as a chemical antagonist. Unlike THC, CBD has anti-psychotic properties making it great for helping reduce anxiety.

Most importantly, talk with a doctor and do your own research. There's a lot of confusion and contradictory information out there. You have the ultimate responsibility for your health.